ASUS providing bootloader unlock for the ZenFone 2

Unbeknownst to the mainstream public, there is a dedicated segment of smartphone users who love to tinker with their high-tech toys. The creation, development, and maintenance of custom made, home-grown ROMs has made places like XDA Developers a haven for life beyond a device’s “digital death” and ASUS is going to make things easier for those using its recent ZenFone 2: the Taiwanese OEM is now providing interested users with a toolkit to unlock their bootloader.

Asus ZenFone 2

The first requirement is to update the phone to the latest software version (listed as V2.20.40.59), after which you can then download, install, and run the “Unlock Device App” and tinker to your heart’s desire. Note that ASUS warns users that doing so will fundamentally change the way in which their device can receive updates and warranty coverage, that is to say: it can’t. Specifically:

“Once you activate the App you will not be able to recover your ASUS product (“Original Product”) back to original locked conditions; the Original Product with the activated App will not be deemed the Original Product; the Revised Product will no longer be covered under the warranty of the Original Product; the software of Revised Product will no longer be deemed the software of the Original Product and can no longer receive ASUS software updates; your purchased digital content may also be affected.”

While none of the stipulations may come as a surprise to those who have done this before, it’s clear that Asus is seeking to limit any and all exposure to liability that comes with providing this service to users. With that said, those interested in getting started can begin the process here:

Notice: 1. Update your software image to V2.20.40.59 or latest version 2. Before you download, install, and use the Unlock Device App you acknowledge and assume complete risk to the quality and performance of this App, including but not limited to the following: once you activate the App you will not be able to recover your ASUS product (“Original Product”) back to original locked conditions; the Original Product with the activated App will not be deemed the Original Product; the Revised Product will no longer be covered under the warranty of the Original Product; the software of Revised Product will no longer be deemed the software of the Original Product and can no longer receive ASUS software updates; your purchased digital content may also be affected.

You also acknowledge ASUS does not guarantee service satisfaction to any Revised Product, including events involving paid service requested by you to be performed to the Revised Product. Furthermore, such repaired Revised Product will not be covered under the warranty of the Original Product; the software of the repaired Revised Product will not be deemed the software of the Original Product and will not receive ASUS software updates. It is strongly advised that you avoid activating this App unless you fully understand and accept the risks that may arise.